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Scioscia still searching for best lineup

Scioscia still searching for best lineup

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CLEVELAND -- The addition of Mike Trout gives manager Mike Scioscia another piece to incorporate into his batting order.

Including Saturday, Scioscia has penciled in 18 different lineups in the Angels' first 21 games. At 7-14, the club is still searching for the right combination of hitters in a scuffling offense. The Halos, who have scored just nine runs during their five-game losing streak, have an abundance of capable veterans to fit into nine positions.

"We're trying to find that combination now," Scioscia said. "I think there are some guys that we definitely want to get some more at-bats and some guys that we definitely need to get in their game and be out there to work through some rough edges, so they are productive eventually. That's where we're trying to find that balance."

Mark Trumbo has moved all over the lineup, playing first base, third base, left field, right field and designated hitter.

The only constant in Los Angeles' order has been first baseman Albert Pujols in the No. 3 hole. The nine-time All-Star has yet to get in a groove at the plate, batting just .226 with no home runs. Scioscia has considered moving Pujols to the cleanup spot.

"It's not one simple solution," Scioscia said, "He has to find a way to find his comfort level in the box, to where he's seeing the ball and squaring it up. He's clearly not in sync, but he will be."